Read Online Rise and Fall by Joshua P. Simon - Free Book Online Page A

them behind. Each day here is one less in Cadonia and one I can’t afford to lose. Jonrell glanced back to Cassus who talked with Wiqua as they rode. He knows I won’t leave them behind now.
    Orange and red lines seeped across the horizon as the sun fell behind low lying clouds that lay over distant hills. Jonrell halted, and ran fingers through his long hair before scratching the stubble at his neck. His hand went to his breast pocket, feeling for the stone Krytien had given him.
    Another day gone and yet I feel no closer.
    Kroke came up beside him, spinning a knife in his hand, the eagle shaped hilt shimmering in the fading sunlight. He looked up, blade turning as he spoke. “I think those slaves are done for the day, Boss.”
    “It seems we’re stopping earlier each day.” He sighed. “Make camp and have Yanasi set up the watch.”
    Kroke shifted the knife from one hand to the other.
    Jonrell looked over at him, his gray eyes weary. “Why don’t you grab a dozen men to go hunting. I’m getting sick of salted beef.”
    Kroke nodded and rode off.
    * * *
    Night came quick and they finished camp by firelight.
    Kroke had come across a small herd of wild buffalo, almost getting himself killed while taking one down with only a pair of throwing knives he had sunk into each of the charging beast’s eye sockets. The men who accompanied Kroke told the tale to all who would listen, saying it was one of the most amazing things they’d ever seen.
    Stupidity can often be confused for amazing.
    Larger pieces of the massive beast roasted over spits while cooks sawed off smaller chunks to throw into soup pots. Soon after, Jonrell sat near one of the cook fires, spooning the rich stew from a trencher. Staring into the flames, his hand subconsciously reached for his breast pocket again.
    “Good stew,” said Krytien, sitting down beside him.
    Jonrell blinked away the glaze from his eyes, scratching his chest with the hand he had reached with. He took another bite and nodded. “A perk of dragging this group around with us. I’m surprised Hag has stayed out of the Byzernian women’s way. She can ruin a dish just by looking at it.”
    The mage chuckled and set a pair of cups down on the ground between them. “Oh, she’s tried a few times but with only a half-hearted effort. Too anxious to do some cooking of her own under the sheets with that old-timer.”
    “Old-timer? Last I checked Wiqua wasn’t much older than you.”
    “That’s uncalled for. I may be old but I’ve got enough of my wits not to go messing around with her.”
    “I’ll give you that.” Jonrell looked down at the tin cups. He picked one up and held it to his nose, smelling the contents. “I hope it isn’t your special brew?”
    “Insults and now, accusations.” The mage shook his head and clutched his faded cloak. “I am truly hurt.”
    “I’m waiting.”
    “Don’t worry. It’s some tea that Wiqua made. I know better than to give you anything with alcohol in it.”
    Jonrell inhaled the contents again before taking a sip. He nodded in satisfaction. “I like it. Thanks.”
    The two men grew silent, watching the flames dance around a roasting leg, crackling as fat dripped into them. Men sat in smaller groups around the various campfires, some playing dice, others checking their weapons. The smartest slept while time permitted.
    “You need to talk to him, you know,” said Krytien.
    Jonrell inclined his head. “Talk to who?”
    “Cassus. The man has been a wreck ever since you mentioned Cadonia.”
    Jonrell snorted. “And that’s my fault? I’ve tried to approach him several times. I’ve known the man since we were boys. He’ll talk to me when he’s ready.”
    “He’s scared. Mentioned something about his father,” said Krytien.
    “The man has fought in more battles than I can remember and he fears seeing disappointment in the face of a feeble old man?” Jonrell shook his head. “Cassus has to face his fears one day.”
    “And this